As a testament to core memories made under Melbourne’s city lights, a piece of artwork created by budding deaf artist Maggie Sandles, 20, has been unveiled on a major construction site in the heart of Melbourne.
The Shepparton-born artist, who has Usher syndrome, said it was the opportunity of a lifetime to bring her love of art, sport and Melbourne together.
Usher syndrome is a rare genetic disease affecting hearing and vision. For Miss Sandles, it impacts her everyday life.
She is profoundly deaf, has no balance organs and is losing her sight. About 10 per cent of her vision remains, which she has compared to “looking through a pinhole”.
However, various art forms have provided a creative outlet for Miss Sandles, with exploring colours and textures among her favourite hobbies.
Her finished pieces often reflect the complexity and intricacy of life and play a crucial role in her self-expression and exploration.
For Miss Sandles, it’s art conveyed with a unique perspective.
Crema Constructions’ ‘Gallery in the Sky’ initiative has seen Miss Sandles’ artwork enlarged over a 40-storey building in Southbank. It will be on display for the next 12 months.
Miss Sandles said seeing her painting on such a large scale was “overwhelming and very exciting”.
“My artwork is my interpretation of Melbourne,” she said.
“I lived in Melbourne throughout my secondary schooling career, and my main memories of Melbourne is rowing on the Yarra and under the Bolte Bridge almost every day before or after school.
“It played such a significant part in my life, and I feel like a lot of who I am was made in those moments on the water. As a result, I thought I’d paint an eight-rowing boat under the Bolte Bridge as a testament to those core memories I made under the city lights.”
Each year, Crema Constructions uses its high-profile construction sites to showcase the work of emerging local artists while supporting a charity of their choice.
The company became aware of Miss Sandles’ artwork through an inaugural national art competition run by Deaf Children Australia and then commissioned her to create a unique piece for the project.
“This whole experience was an unexpected opportunity. I appreciate every opportunity I get, and I believe life is about taking every chance and grabbing it with both hands,” Miss Sandles said.
“This unique opportunity has definitely developed my confidence as an artist. I appreciate the experience so much; it has reminded me how big the art world is and the different ways we can share our creativity.”
Miss Sandles is completing a Bachelor of Exercise and Sports Science at the University of Queensland in Brisbane. Along with her deep passion for art, another incredible opportunity is unfolding for her — next year’s Paralympics in Paris.
Her training is under way to compete in the visually impaired classification, and her message to others to never give up is inspiring.
“I would encourage young people to embrace new experiences, regardless of challenges. It’s through trying different things that you discover your passions and strengths. Don’t be afraid to give anything in life a go,” Miss Sandles said.
“I believe that too often, we focus on the things that we can’t do because of our disability, but there is a whole world out there of things that we can do.
“Embrace your unique perspective and use it as a strength.
“Don’t let challenges define you, but rather be audacious and seize every opportunity that comes your way.”